Recent public discussion regarding Bermuda's work permit policy provides an opportunity to clarify the challenges facing Bermuda's labour market and the principles that continue to guide the Government's approach to immigration and workforce development.
Bermuda's greatest labour market challenge is not a lack of economic growth, but the demographic reality of an ageing population and a shrinking workforce. As more Bermudians retire and fewer enter the labour force, employers across many sectors are experiencing increasing difficulty filling vacancies.
The facts demonstrate that Bermuda's economy continues to grow. Employment has increased, unemployment remains at historically low levels, tourism has strengthened, international business continues to invest, and construction activity remains robust.
These conditions point to a labour market where demand for workers is exceeding the available local labour supply. The challenge facing many employers is not a lack of jobs, but a shortage of available workers driven by Bermuda's changing demographics.
The Government's work permit policy is designed to strike an appropriate balance between supporting economic growth and ensuring that qualified Bermudians receive the first opportunity to compete for available employment. Immigration remains an important part of Bermuda's labour market, but it must also complement long-term efforts to develop and protect the local workforce.
To support these objectives, the Government has introduced several policy measures that strengthen employment opportunities for Bermudians while enabling employers to address genuine labour shortages where local workers are unavailable. These measures include:
- Expanding the list of closed occupations where work permits are no longer available because qualified Bermudians are available;
- Expanding restricted occupations, requiring employers to demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit Bermudians before seeking overseas workers;
- Introducing measures that promote greater stability within the work permit system for both employers and employees; and
- Reserving summer employment and internship opportunities exclusively for Bermudians, ensuring young people gain valuable early work experience.
Commenting on the Government's approach, the Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, explained, "Bermuda's immigration policy is not simply about filling vacancies. It is about striking the right balance between supporting economic growth and protecting opportunities for Bermudians. As our population ages and our workforce changes, immigration will continue to play an important role in addressing genuine labour shortages. At the same time, we remain committed to investing in education, apprenticeships, workforce development, and policies that ensure Bermudians are first in line for employment opportunities. Together, these efforts will help build a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits everyone."
The Government also recognises that employers require an efficient and responsive immigration system. Work continues towards modernising immigration services through digital transformation and process improvements while ensuring the immigration framework continues to support Bermuda's long-term economic development objectives.
At the same time, the Government continues to invest in education, apprenticeships, workforce development, and skills training to prepare more Bermudians for careers in sectors experiencing labour shortages. Immigration and workforce development are complementary policies that together support a strong, resilient, and competitive economy.
As Bermuda's population continues to age, maintaining a sustainable workforce will require a balanced approach that protects opportunities for Bermudians while ensuring employers have access to the skills needed to support continued economic growth.
The Government remains committed to pursuing policies that strengthen Bermuda's economy, invest in its people, and ensure that immigration continues to address genuine labour market needs in a way that benefits the island as a whole.
